Study in Singapore Without IELTS on Scholarship 2025 [Fully Funded]

Imagine studying at one of the world’s top universities—without the stress of taking the IELTS exam. Sounds too good to be true? Not in Singapore.

As education writers who have spent years researching international study destinations, we’ve explored countless opportunities for students hoping to break barriers without breaking the bank. Among all the choices, Singapore stands out as a beacon of innovation, diversity, and academic excellence. It’s a country where skyscrapers touch the clouds, cultures blend seamlessly, and education is deeply valued—not just for locals but for international students too.

Many students dream of pursuing their undergraduate, master’s, or PhD studies in this vibrant city-state. But there’s often one common roadblock: English language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. These exams can be costly, time-consuming, and stressful—especially for students who’ve already studied in English but lack formal test results.

Here’s the exciting news: Singapore offers a path forward. With several universities and scholarship programs waiving the IELTS requirement for eligible students, your academic journey doesn’t have to pause because of a test. Better still, there are fully funded scholarships for 2025–2026 that cover tuition, living expenses, and even airfare.

In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk you through:

• How to study in Singapore without IELTS
  
• Top universities that accept alternatives like a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter
  
• Fully funded scholarships for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs
  
• Application procedures, required documents, and visa steps
  

Whether you’re a high-achieving student from South Asia, Africa, or the Middle East—or anywhere in the world—this guide is tailored to help you make your dream of studying in Singapore a reality. Let’s dive in.

Why Study in Singapore?

Studying in Singapore is more than just earning a degree—it’s a launchpad to a world-class career and a culturally rich life. As experienced education writers, we’ve seen how Singapore consistently ranks among the best study-abroad destinations due to its innovation, safety, and academic prestige.

Let’s explore the top reasons why international students choose Singapore:

High-Quality Education

Singapore is home to some of the world’s top universities, such as the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU). These institutions regularly rank in the global top 20 according to the QS World University Rankings. The quality of education here is on par with elite universities in the U.S., UK, and Australia.

English as Medium of Instruction

One big plus? You don’t have to learn a new language. Singapore uses English as the primary language for instruction, especially in universities. That makes it easier for international students to adapt and excel in their programs without facing a language barrier.

Fully Funded Scholarships

What truly makes Singapore stand out is the number of fully funded scholarships available to international students. These cover tuition, living expenses, and sometimes even flight tickets. We’ll go over these in detail later in the guide.

Strong Job Market

Singapore has one of the most dynamic job markets in Asia, with global companies like Google, Facebook, and Dyson maintaining headquarters here. Many graduates land jobs quickly after finishing their studies, thanks to strong ties between universities and industry.

Safe and Multicultural Environment

Ranked as one of the safest cities in the world (Safe Cities Index – Economist Intelligence Unit), Singapore is clean, organized, and welcoming. The country celebrates cultural diversity, making it easy for students of all backgrounds to feel at home.

Can You Study in Singapore Without IELTS?

Yes, and that’s what makes Singapore a smart choice. Unlike many countries that require standardized English tests, several Singaporean universities offer more flexible options for proving language proficiency.

Here are the common ways to study in Singapore without taking the IELTS:

1. Previous Education in English

If your last degree (high school or university) was taught in English, many Singaporean universities will accept that as proof of language ability.

2. Medium of Instruction (MOI) Letter

A Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your previous institution—stating that your courses were taught in English—can serve as a substitute for IELTS. Many schools, including NUS and SMU, accept this.

3. Alternative English Tests

Universities may also accept other English proficiency tests such as:

• TOEFL
  
• Duolingo English Test
  
• PTE Academic
  

4. Internal Assessments or Interviews

Some universities, especially at the graduate level, may conduct their own interviews or English assessments. This method helps schools evaluate your communication skills in a more personalized way.

This level of flexibility makes Singapore an ideal place to pursue your studies—no IELTS needed, just strong academic performance and the right documents.

Top Universities in Singapore Without IELTS Requirement

Several leading universities in Singapore welcome international students without mandating IELTS, provided they meet other language proficiency requirements. Below is a quick guide to the top schools that offer this flexibility:

Top Singaporean Universities Accepting Students Without IELTS

These universities are globally recognized for innovation and academic excellence. By offering IELTS waivers, they open doors for more students to pursue their dreams.

Why Study in Singapore?

When it comes to global education, Singapore is a game-changer. As a long-time researcher in international education trends, we’ve seen students choose Singapore for more than just its top-ranked universities. They choose it for the total experience—and here’s why.

High-Quality Education

Singapore is home to some of the world’s best universities. Both National University of Singapore (NUS) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) regularly rank in the QS World University Rankings. These schools offer cutting-edge research, respected faculty, and industry-linked programs that shape future leaders.

English as Medium of Instruction

There’s no language barrier. Almost every course, from bachelor’s to PhD, is taught in English. So, international students don’t need to worry about learning a new language to keep up in class. This opens doors for students who already studied in English-speaking environments but lack formal test scores.

Scholarship Opportunities

Singapore is generous when it comes to scholarships. From government-funded options like SINGA to university-based awards, students can study in Singapore on a fully funded scholarship. This often includes full tuition, monthly stipends, and even return airfare.

Strong Job Market

Singapore is a global business hub. Students benefit from a robust post-study work visa policy and access to multinational companies. Graduates often land jobs in finance, tech, engineering, and health sectors.

Safe and Multicultural Environment

Living in Singapore means living in one of the safest countries in the world. It’s clean, efficient, and full of cultural diversity. With people from China, India, Malaysia, and beyond, it’s a warm and welcoming place for students from all backgrounds.

Can You Study in Singapore Without IELTS?

Yes, and this is a huge relief for many students. Over the years, we’ve seen an increasing number of applicants succeed without standardized English tests. Singaporean universities offer flexibility, focusing more on your academic background and real-life communication skills.

When IELTS Is Not Required

You can skip the IELTS if:

• You completed your previous education in English.
  
• You submit a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your school.
  
• You take an alternative test like TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, or PTE.
  
• The university conducts an internal interview or test to assess your fluency.
  

Many students from South Asia and Africa have benefited from this. Universities often recognize the fact that your ability to communicate and learn in English can be proven without a scorecard.

Top Universities in Singapore Without IELTS Requirement

Singapore is home to several forward-thinking universities that waive IELTS if you meet certain conditions. Here’s a handy table that summarizes the key details:

Top Universities in Singapore That Accept Alternatives to IELTS

Each of these universities has its own process. Some ask for a simple MOI letter, while others may invite you for a video interview. It’s crucial to visit the official websites and read the admissions section carefully.

Coming up next: we’ll explore the fully funded scholarships you can apply for in Singapore—and how to win one without an IELTS score.

Fully Funded Scholarships in Singapore 2025

Securing a fully funded scholarship in Singapore is a dream come true for many students. From our years of helping learners apply for international programs, we’ve noticed that Singapore’s scholarships are among the most generous in Asia. They don’t just cover tuition—they often include living costs, airfare, and more.

Let’s explore the top scholarships available in 2025 that you can apply for without an IELTS score:

Fully Funded Scholarships in Singapore for International Students (2025)

Each of these scholarships is highly competitive. But here’s the good news: Many don’t require IELTS if you can show proof of English-medium education. For example, the SINGA scholarship allows applicants to submit an MOI letter or attend an interview instead of submitting a language test score.

Pro tip: Start early. Prepare your documents, check deadlines on official websites, and follow the specific application instructions.

Required Documents

Getting your documents ready is a crucial step. Over the years, we’ve seen that applicants who prepare early are more likely to succeed—especially when applying without IELTS.

Here’s what you’ll typically need:

• Academic Transcripts: Marksheets from previous education
  
• Medium of Instruction (MOI) Letter: A certificate from your university stating your courses were taught in English
  
• Valid Passport Copy: Your current passport with at least six months’ validity
  
• CV or Resume: Highlighting your education, work experience, and achievements
  
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Motivational Letter: A personal essay explaining why you want to study in Singapore
  
• Recommendation Letters: Usually two academic references from professors or lecturers
  
• Scholarship Application Form: Filled out carefully and completely
  

Make sure your documents are clear, error-free, and well-organized. If possible, get them attested or notarized for official use.

Visa Process for International Students

Once you receive your offer letter, the next step is to apply for a Student Pass, which acts as your student visa in Singapore.

Singapore has a simple and student-friendly visa process. We’ve guided many students through this part, and here’s what you need to do:

How to Apply for a Student Pass

1. Log on to SOLAR – Student’s Pass Online Application & Registration portal, managed by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
   
2. Use the application reference number provided by your university.
   
3. Submit the required documents, including your admission letter, passport copy, photo, and form V36 (if needed).
   
4. Pay the visa fee (typically around SGD $30–60).
   
5. Wait for approval. It usually takes 2–4 weeks.
   

You will also need to schedule an in-person appointment upon arrival in Singapore to complete the formalities, such as fingerprinting and collecting your pass.

Applying early ensures you avoid delays. If you’re using a fully funded scholarship, mention this in your visa application—it strengthens your case.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Over the years, we’ve received tons of questions from students who dream of studying in Singapore without IELTS. Here are the most common ones, answered simply and clearly.

Q1. Can I study in Singapore without IELTS?

Yes, you can. Most universities accept students who studied in English before. All you need is a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from your previous school. Some schools may also offer interviews or ask for alternative tests like TOEFL or Duolingo English Test.

Q2. What are the best scholarships in Singapore?

Some of the top fully funded scholarships include:

• SINGA (Singapore International Graduate Award)
  
• NTU Research Scholarship
  
• NUS ASEAN Graduate Scholarship
  
• A*STAR scholarships
  
• SMU Global Impact Scholarship
  

Q3. Is Singapore expensive for students?

While tuition and housing in Singapore can be costly, scholarships cover most expenses. Plus, international students are allowed to work part-time (up to 16 hours per week) during their studies. This makes it easier to manage daily living costs. Read more on the Ministry of Manpower website.

Q4. How can I get a full scholarship in Singapore?

Here are our tips:

• Maintain excellent academic grades
  
• Write a strong SOP or motivational letter
  
• Collect powerful recommendation letters
  
• Prepare early and apply before deadlines
  
• Choose a course that fits your background
  

Each scholarship has specific requirements. Always check the official scholarship page before applying.

How to Apply for Scholarships in Singapore Without IELTS?

From years of working with scholarship applicants, we’ve created a step-by-step plan that makes the process less confusing. Here’s how you can apply for a scholarship in Singapore without IELTS:

Step 1: Choose a University and Program

Start by picking a university that accepts IELTS alternatives. Visit the official websites of NUS, NTU, SMU, or others.

Step 2: Check Eligibility Requirements

Look for programs that match your previous education and career goals. Also, confirm whether you need to submit IELTS or if an MOI letter or interview is accepted.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Get your academic transcripts, MOI letter, SOP, resume, and recommendation letters ready. Refer to the full list in Section 5 of this guide.

Step 4: Submit Your University Application

Most universities have online portals. Create an account and follow the steps to apply. Be sure to upload all documents in the required format.

Step 5: Apply for the Scholarship

Some scholarships are built into the university application. Others require a separate form. Check the instructions on the university’s scholarship page and submit before the deadline.

Step 6: Attend an Interview (If Required)

Some schools may invite you for a video or phone interview to check your English skills or learn more about you.

Step 7: Receive Offer and Apply for Student Visa

Once you get the offer letter, apply for your Student Pass using ICA Singapore’s official portal. Plan ahead to avoid last-minute issues.

Pro Tip: Keep a checklist and track every step. Missing a small document or deadline can cost you a year.

Conclusion about Study in Singapore Without IELTS

Studying in Singapore without taking the IELTS test is not only possible—it’s a real and growing opportunity. With world-class universities, high-quality education in English, and generous fully funded scholarships, Singapore has opened its doors wide for international students.

Top institutions like NUS, NTU, and SMU value your previous education, not just a test score. Whether you’re planning to pursue undergraduate, master’s, or PhD studies, this guide can be your first step toward success.

So, don’t let the lack of an IELTS score stop you. Start by checking university websites, gather your documents early, and submit your applications on time. With the right planning and a little courage, your dream of studying in Singapore in 2025 can become a reality.

If you found this guide helpful, consider sharing it with a friend or classmate who’s also looking for scholarships in Singapore without IELTS. For updates and personalized help, join our community and explore expert services through our Premium WhatsApp Group and Professional Writing Services.

Good luck—and see you in Singapore!